Hello
Could you point me to some resources for studying:
Optimal design / specification for lattice-frame booms loaded in pure compression - as you would find for classic derricks (gin-pole, stiffleg-derrick, ...).
Can't carry books with me, so favour on-line learning resources.
I have studied trusses before (lattice frame loaded in beam) - for small foot-bridge. I'm a metallurgist (scientist) and welder. Already learned engineering concept that for compression members the compression load limit may (is likely to be) limited by instability (failure by local bucking) at below the compression yield force given the cross-sectional area.
Anyone tell me about my conjecture and whether it is overcomplicated (there's simplifying factors) or incomplete (there's other things to be considered) or whatever...
My guess is that for a given mass per unit length, starting from a very slender boom, the wider the spacing in cross-section of the longitudinal members the higher the load-carrying capability - until compression instability of the longer straight lengths of the lattice "triangle sides" dominates and the optimum spacing of the longitudinal structurals is passed. Then I have no clue what is the optimal size of tube - for given mass per unit length the tube is stiffer if larger diameter but if of larger diameter it must have smaller wall thickness
- hence buckling instability would limit how big is beyond optimum. Then there is plastic design and damage tolerance which might make smaller thicker tubes attractive for real applications.
Square cross-section (four longitudinal members) or triangular cross-section (three longitudinal members)?
I'm thinking in the few metres length range. And makeable given a stack of tube and a MIG, stick or TIG-welding machine
Haven't found anything in Blodgett "Design of welded structures" (US) or The Steel Construction Institute's "Steel Designers; Manual" (UK). (?)
If I came by a way of optimal and achievable design I might be able to do some tests making and compressing some samples over the winter season.
Richard Smith